Aqua Seafood & Caviar Restaurant Review
An Oceanic Oasis in the Desert
Aqua Seafood & Caviar Restaurant stands as a testament to Las Vegas' ability to deliver world-class culinary experiences far from any ocean. Nestled within the luxurious Bellagio Resort, this establishment offers an elegant escape into the realm of premium seafood and refined dining.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
The moment you step inside Aqua, you're greeted by a sophisticated marine-inspired decor featuring subtle blue lighting, sleek modern furnishings, and artistic aquatic elements. The dining room offers stunning views of the Bellagio's famous fountains, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for your meal. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between formal elegance and relaxed comfort, with crisp white linens and professional yet approachable service staff.
Culinary Excellence
Aqua's menu is a celebration of oceanic delicacies, with their caviar service being particularly noteworthy. The restaurant offers an impressive selection of caviar from around the world, served traditionally with blinis, crème fraîche, and chopped eggs. Their seafood tower is a spectacular centerpiece, featuring fresh oysters, lobster, crab, and shrimp presented on ice.
Standout dishes include the miso-glazed black cod, which melts in your mouth with perfect balance of sweet and savory notes, and the butter-poached Maine lobster that demonstrates technical precision in preparation. The yellowtail crudo with yuzu and Hawaiian sea salt showcases their ability to let premium ingredients shine with minimal intervention.
Service and Experience
The service team demonstrates extensive knowledge of both the menu and wine pairings. Sommeliers provide excellent recommendations from their substantial wine list, which features particularly strong selections of Champagne and white Burgundies to complement the seafood-focused menu. While generally attentive, service can occasionally become slightly stretched during peak hours.
Value Consideration
Aqua operates in the luxury dining category, with entrees ranging from $45-85 and caviar services starting at $95. While certainly a splurge, the quality of ingredients and execution justifies the pricing for special occasions. The restaurant offers a tasting menu at $185 per person that provides excellent value for experiencing their signature dishes.
Special Features
What sets Aqua apart is their caviar concierge service, offering guided tastings and education about different caviar varieties. Their raw bar is among the best in Vegas, with oysters shucked to order and impressive selection of crudo and tartare preparations. The Bellagio location provides the added benefit of pre- or post-dinner entertainment with the fountain shows.
Recommendations
For Romantic Evenings: Request a fountain-view table and indulge in the caviar service with Champagne.
For Business Dining: The private dining options and impressive wine list make ideal settings for important meetings.
For Seafood Connoisseurs: The chef's tasting menu with wine pairings provides a comprehensive experience.
For Special Occasions: Inform staff of celebrations in advance for complimentary desserts or special arrangements.
Practical Information
Hours: Daily 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (until 11:00 PM Friday-Saturday)
Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for weekend dining
Dress Code: Business casual to formal attire
Parking: Bellagio self-parking or valet available
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with elevator access